I had to look this up…
There are approximately 17,500 – 20,000 species of butterflies around the world. About 750 Species in the United States, and about 2,000 species in Mexico.

Monarch butterflies which are plentiful in Southern California are not at all plentiful, and rather rarely seen, in Mexico.

I visited Juarez, Mexico in September of this year. I went with the Men’s Ministry of my church as we were there on a Missions trip to help build a school for very underprivileged children. My church has been going to Juarez for nearly 20 years to build this school and what began as building one room has now been made into multiple rooms to accommodate the slow but steady growth of children who attend.

What began as a school for elementary-aged children K-6th grade has recently grown to include 7th grade and accommodates children who move beyond grade 6. Our Ministry trip in September was to begin construction on the first 8th grade classroom for the school. We’re not finished, but we will return to continue this work.

Upon arrival on the first day I wasn’t out of our group vehicle long at all before I saw above me a fluttering Monarch butterfly. Up and down and in circles the butterfly flew freely and I was immediately moved to tears. Irene had always loved Monarch butterflies and every time I am on a walk around our house I usually see many of them. Every time I see a Monarch butterfly I say to Irene ‘Hi Irene!’ And I always tell her how much I miss her and love her, and that I will one day see her again.

To see this lone Monarch butterfly flying around me was simply incredible. Fluttering all around me, the butterfly flew carelessly and joyfully. So heartwarming, I took this as a sign that Irene is truly always with me. She is all around me and will be with me forever, and always.